The Phantom of the Opera returns to Sydney Harbour as part of the global 40 years celebration

The show opens on 27th March 2026

Opera Australia announced the return of The Phantom of the Opera, one of the Andrew Lloyd Webber most popular musicals, to the Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour stage in 2026.

The Phantom of the Opera having played to more than 160 million people in 205 cities in 21 languages. The Sydney Harbour production, directed by Australian musical theatre royalty Simon Phillips, staging the first major event in a world-wide celebration of the fan favourite musical in 2026. Opera Australia Acting CEO Simon Militano said “We’re honoured to be playing such a prominent role in the 40th anniversary global celebrations for this iconic musical, in the same year that OA is marking its own significant milestone with its 70th anniversary. Our spectacular staging of The Phantom of the Opera, with its magical setting on Sydney Harbour, and the sweeping gothic romance and unforgettable music, all combines to create a fantastic showcase of OA’s artistic excellence, and an event not to be missed”.

The Really Useful Group CEO, James McKnight, said: “We’re delighted that Opera Australia will once again be staging this magnificent harbour production. It is the first of many global projects to be announced as we celebrate 40 years of Phantom. This unique staging brings to life the drama and splendour of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s music that has made Phantom such a beloved phenomenon, loved by millions of fans old and new around the world. There could be no more fitting backdrop than Sydney Harbour to begin our year of celebrations of one of the world's most iconic musicals.”

NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said, “Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour is a signature event on our calendar that showcases Sydney’s unique combination of culture and nature to the world. I’m thrilled Andrew Lloyd Webber has chosen Sydney to commence next year’s 40th anniversary celebrations of The Phantom of the Opera. Staging an iconic production like Phantom in its milestone year, under the stars, on the water with the spectacular city skyline as the backdrop illustrates why Sydney is renowned as a global hub for cultural experiences.”